I’ve finally found a workable backpack for all my cameras, laptop, reading, writing and travel gear! With over 25,000 miles of travel on planes, boats, a minivan, cars, trains, a 32′ RV and on foot, I have had the chance to get a good feel for the REI Quantum Computer Pack over the course of this summer.
While most computer backpacks nowadays do a decent job of storing a 17″ Macbook or smaller, I had yet to find a pack that would also handle my larger Canon EOS 5D DSLR camera and zoom lens. Plus, most packs I had tried out lacked decent organization.
The Quantum, I can honestly say, solved almost all of my problems (we’ll get to the ‘almost’ in a bit). And as icing on the cake, the bag is made from nearly 100% recycled PET plastic!
Let’s start with the basics; it’s made by REI so it comes with a lifetime warranty, something I desire as I wish to purchase most items like this only once. Second, the pack envelops up to a 17″ laptop in a padded, side zippered compartment close to the back side of the pack. Not only is there padding on the front and back for your laptop, but the bottom of the compartment has a flip out cushion for extra protection when the pack is set down. The shoulder straps are comfortable even after three hours of continuous backpacking with 40lbs or more. It has a water bottle holder on the side opposite the laptop zipper large enough for a one litter bottle. A padded carry handle on the top and a second grab handle on the side make hoisting the bag easy and comfortable.
Where this bag really shines is on the inside. Organization!! This bag has it and it fits this travel blogger like a glove. Starting with the main zipper compartment, there is access to the laptop pocket first, then a large divided area followed by a third open section. I know, it’s a bit hard to explain, so take a look at the photo on the left (click for larger image). Tucked into those dividers are two advantageous pockets I use for holding camera accessories such as extra memory cards or card readers. The outside (inside) of this pocket has a zippered mesh pouch which will hold three camera battery chargers.
As previously mentioned, the center area will hold not just one, but two cameras. I’ve had my larger Canon along with a smaller Canon Rebel T1i nestled on top. But this space can get invaded from the pocket next to it, making quick access to the cameras not realistic. In its defense, this bag is not meant as a quick access camera bag, but it will handle carrying multiple cameras when hunting locations or traveling through an airport.
There are two, smaller pockets on the outside of the bag perfect for keys, change, a small camera and a cell phone. The upper pocket also has one of those handy headphone ports so you can throw in an iPod and keep it out of sight while listening to your tunes.
The second largest pocket is best described as an office in a pack. Take a look at the photo at right. Pen holders, gusseted sides to help it open fully and pockets, pockets, pockets! As shown, I carry a digital voice recorder, pens, dental floss, passport (in that back pouch), keys and more. In place of the voice recorder a cell phone could easily be stored. Not shown are the notepad, books and journal that normally reside in the open area. And I still haven’t figured out what to store in the mesh zippered pocket. This section of the bag has more room than I can really use but it is organized well. All sections are easy to get to even with a couple books stashed in there.
Now for the gripes. As previously mentioned, if there is too much in any one pocket it encroaches on the other pockets in the main section. This can make extracting a camera difficult, but doesn’t harm other, longer items, such as magazines or folders. And the waist belt is a joke. It’s just one inch webbing with some clips that rides too high on my belly to be useful. That being said, I really have no need for that strap and just ignore it.
The shoulder straps are well padded and there is an adjustable sternum strap, which I *do* find useful as it makes the fit that much more tailored. There is also a small loop at the top to help hang the pack when not in use.
This pack has become my favorite all around computer/camera travel backpack for all the reasons listed above. Even after carrying over 40lbs of gear from plane to train to rental car, I find it comfortable and well organized. It has also weathered my normal bout of rough handling and nary a puncture can be found in its hide. Whether heading out for a day or a month, I keep my REI Quantum Computer Pack packed and ready in my closet for my next grand adventure.
I feel your enthusiasm about the backpack and I also think it looks not only nice but is also versatile and good quality. It could meet all my requirements for a backpack. The only doubt I have is concerning the accommodation of the camera, lenses and flash. I didn’t see the usual compartments in this backpack for the photographic gear. Can you please tell me more about this.